CHAPTER 13 Perioperative Care^491
INTERPRETING TEST RESULTS
- Electrolyte abnormality due to vomiting.
- Abdominal flat and upright x-ray shows stool in constipation, gas-filled intes-
tinal loops in paralytic ileus.
TREATMENT
- Monitor abdomen for distention; listen for bowel sounds.
- Assess for dehydration as a result of prolonged vomiting.
- Restrict oral intake in paralytic ileus or if nausea and vomiting are present.
- Nasogastric (NG) tube connected to suction to prevent vomiting in paralytic
ileus. - Progress diet as tolerated once bowel sounds return and patient is passing
flatus rectally. - Administer intravenous fluids.
- Administer total parenteral nutrition.
- Administer antiemetics as required.
NURSING DIAGNOSES
- Risk for imbalanced nutrition: less than what body requires
- Risk for imbalanced fluid volume
- Risk for delayed surgical recovery
- Risk for constipation
- Altered bowel elimination
NURSING INTERVENTIONS
- Ask patient about presence of nausea.
- Monitor vital signs for changes.
- Listen to bowel sounds; assess abdomen for distention.
- Monitor intravenous site for signs of infiltration, pain, and redness.